Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Washington, George (1732-1799) to Henry Knox

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09342 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Letter Date: 1 April 1789 Pagination: 2 p. ; 31 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy

Later copy of a letter written by Washington to Knox, discussing his hesitation to become President. Reads "My movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm." Copy made 2 February 1854.

Signer of the U.S. Constitution.

[Draft]
Mount Vernon April 1st. 1789

My dear Sir;

The Mail of the 30th. brought me your favor of the 23d. For which, & the regular infor- mation you have had the goodness to transmit of the state of things in New York, I feel myself very much obliged, and thank you accordingly.

I feel for those Members of the new Congress, who, hitherto, have given an unavailing attendance at the theatre of business. For myself, the delay may be compared to a re- prieve; for in confidence I can assure you - with the world it would obtain little credit - that my movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm. I am sensible, that I am embarking the voice of my Countrymen and a good name of my own on this voyage, but what returns will be made for them - Heaven alone can foretell. Integrity & firmness is all I can promise; these be the voyage long or short, never shall forsake me although I may be deserted by all men. For of the consolations which are to be derived from these (under any circum- stances) the world cannot deprive me. With best wishes for Mrs. Knox, & sincere friend- ship for yourself. I remain

Your affectionate

Go: Washington

Washington, George, 1732-1799
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources